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[Cost benefit analysis of ulcer therapy]
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift
|May 19, 1984
Summary
Duodenal ulcer disease significantly impacts the economy. Cimetidine, an H2-blocking agent, provided substantial economic gains and improved patient quality of life in Germany.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Health Economics
- Pharmacoeconomics
Context:
- Duodenal ulcer (DU) disease is a prevalent condition with significant economic implications.
- In 1980, Germany (FRG) recorded 400,000 DU treatments, with an estimated 625,000 ulcer attacks and 56,900 hospitalizations.
- The total economic burden of DU in Germany was nearly DM 1 billion, comprising DM 514 million in lost work time and DM 429.5 million in medical costs.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the economic impact of duodenal ulcer disease.
- To assess the cost-benefit of cimetidine, an H2-blocking agent, for treating duodenal ulcers in Germany.
Summary:
- Cimetidine, introduced in 1977, generated over DM 200 million in economic gains by 1980.
- After accounting for DM 43.1 million in additional treatment expenditures, the net economic benefit of cimetidine was DM 170.5 million.
- The drug demonstrated a cost-benefit ratio of 4:1, indicating significant economic advantages.
Impact:
- The study highlights the substantial economic burden of duodenal ulcers and the positive financial impact of effective treatments like cimetidine.
- Beyond monetary gains, cimetidine treatment offered intangible benefits, such as 40-50 pain-free weeks per 100 patients.
- This research underscores the importance of considering both economic and quality-of-life factors in healthcare interventions.